Real Time Ultrasound

Real Time Ultrasound is an imaging technique which allows visualisation of muscle contractions while the body is at rest or during an ongoing activity.

Stabilising muscles or inner core muscles are deep muscles within the body that aid in stability of the spine, performing daily functions, preventing pain and also protect the pelvis and trunk from injury during an activity. Muscles involved are the breathing muscles (diaphragm), pelvic floor muscles, deep muscles in the lower back(lumbar multifidus), and deep abdominal muscles(transverse abdominis). These muscles automatically contract before any other movement or muscle contraction occurs. Poor function of these muscles may cause low back pain, unstable pelvis and other problems that may affect daily activities and sports performance.

Stabilising muscles require specific training for normal functional recovery after an injury. This is facilitated by real time ultrasound imaging which allows you and your therapist to view these muscles as they contract in real time, which also helps your therapist to prescribe specific exercises for faster recovery.

Indications

Real time ultrasound imaging is indicated for evaluation of muscle functions in the following conditions:

Low back pain

Pregnancy-related back, pelvic or rib pain

Weakness of the pelvic floor muscles

Before and after spinal surgery

It is also useful for evaluating muscle performance in athletes, dancers and players.

Procedure

Real time ultrasound imaging is a painless, non-invasive procedure. Your therapist will first measure the pattern of muscle contraction. A moderately filled bladder is necessary for better visibility of pelvic floor muscles. A hand-held ultrasound probe is glided down the skin over muscles to be analysed and images are projected on a screen. Deep layers of muscles at various levels within your body are visible for evaluation on the monitor.

Benefits

Real Time Ultrasound imaging includes the following benefits:

Provides vital feedback to the patient regarding muscle performance

Helps in analysing correct measures to strengthen the body

Prescription of specific targeted exercises for complete recovery after an injury